PBA pushes plan to own dream home

BANGKOK – The Philippine Basketball Association is aggressively pursuing a dream of having its own coliseum with the league now in search of experts who will study the viability and feasibility of the project.

The PBA, through a special committee headed by Buddy Encarnado, has identified a strategic project site somewhere in Mandaluyong back home and had initial talks with the owner.

Encarnado, a former PBA board chair representing Sta. Lucia Realty, reported his own study and made proposals on the matter during the resumption of the PBA planning session here.

“We’re moving forward. Buddy Encarnado suggested that we secure services study by a research group. There’s already one proponent and we want to get two more,” said PBA commissioner Chito Salud.

“Will it be viable? Will it earn money? Will it save money for the PBA on rentals? Answering these questions for us is the task of the group,” Salud said.

Having its own coliseum has long been a cherished dream for the PBA, the oldest professional cage league in Asia entering its 36th season next month.

The special committee chair felt the project is viable and feasible.

“The PBA has been there for 35 years. It’s about time that they have their own playing arena,” said Encarnado.

The Sta. Lucia top official has his proposal but he wants the PBA to tap other groups for comparative study.

“I don’t want my group to be involved. It’s better for us to tap other groups for it to be more transparent,” said Encarnado.

Board chairman Rene Pardo said the research proponents could be named in the next board meeting in October.

“It would depend on the study on whether we would push with this,” said Pardo.

Encarnado said groundbreaking might already be made early next year if the PBA decides to go for it.

“The moment the contract is signed and sealed, the design will be approved in 45 days. In another few days, bidding among contractors will also be okay,” said Encarnado.

“The board is excited about this but I want them to see the deeper picture,” he said.